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Ministry to think of ways to help Lao farmers find markets
VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN) – The Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to play the role of a coordinator to develop policies and mechanisms that facilitate Lao businesses.
The Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, adopted this resolution at its monthly meeting held on October 19, according to a media release posted on the government website.
This intervention by the cabinet empowers the ministry to act as the focal point to coordinate with other state agencies to develop sound policies and mechanisms to help Lao businesses access better and larger markets.
The government’s policy is to promote entrepreneurs, especially those involved in agribusiness and farming, so that they produce more goods for commercial purposes.
However, many of them face challenges in selling their produce. A farm manager in Savannakhet province, Khamfong Bolaboud, told the media earlier this month his company was complying with the government’s policy to establish farms to supply to the local market. But one of the biggest hurdles they face is selling their products in other provinces.
He said there were several barriers which prevented them from selling their produce in Vientiane.
He said farm owners wanted the government to eliminate these barriers so they could boost productivity.
There are several instances where farmers have a large yield but are unable to channel their produce to markets and accrue benefits.
In other cases, neighbouring countries impose barriers on Lao farmers and they are unable to sell their crops in the international market.
Source: https://borneobulletin.com.bn/ministry-to-think-of-ways-to-help-lao-farmers-find-markets/